Pathway to Level 4 - National Official

Pathway to Level 4—National Official

Officials at this level will act as the Chief at a National Championship, qualifier for a national championship and/or a meet involving para-athletes at venues inside and outside of B.C. They will also be eligible to officiate at international level meets. In addition to the expectations of a Level 3 Official, the Level 4 official will be able to:

  • lead the entire process from planning and setup through execution and completion in venues that may be outside of B.C. This includes ensuring the necessary equipment and supplies are available on-site and the area is setup according to World Athletics rules.
  • anticipate and address any bottlenecks or issues from the volume of athletes or meet schedule.
  • Respond to any issues and ensure the solution is communicated in a timely and consistent manner to other officials, athletes, coaches and other impacted parties. For example, delaying the event due to weather conditions and revising and communicating the change in schedule; adapting the layout of the area to accommodation more/less athletes than planned.
  • Lead a team of volunteers and officials through the meet to ensure procedures are followed, rules applied consistently while providing a safe, fair competition that is a positive experience for all those involved.

The pathway to Level 4 involves the following:

  • 24 credits working as a Chief or Assistant Chief in the specific discipline. Experience requirements are listed in the NOC Upgrading Criteria document. Requirements include at least 2 credits at an indoor meet.
  • Successful completion of a National clinic and take home assignment in the discipline.
  • Successful completion of the NOC open book exam on the rules in the World Para Athletics Rule Book with a mark of at least 80%.
  • Completion of two practical evaluations by a National Evaluator. Evaluations are defined in the NOC Upgrading Criteria document. Requirements include being evaluated in all events or tasks within the discipline.
  • 2 years’ service since the last upgrading in the discipline.

Please discuss with your mentor or the Upgrading Coordinator if any questions or clarity requested.

NOTE: Upgrades to Level 4 are determined, evaluated and approved by the National Officials Committee.